While it may be true that popular international bands choose bigger metropolitan cities for their concerts, Puducherry has had the distinction of not shying away from experimental and new sounds thanks to its cosmopolitan audience with eclectic tastes. November is expected to end with a bang with Aurodhan Pondicherry bringing flautist Alan Doherty, who performed for The Lord of the Rings soundtrack, and his band ALDOC and three other bands from across the world, and Lakshman Das Baul from West Bengal. Bands KOKOMO from France, Tulegar from Mongolia and Ziskakan from Reunion Island are the others in the line-up.
Alan Doherty is probably the next famous Irish man to visit Puducherry after Lieutenant General of the French forces Lally Tollendal in the 18th century, jokes Lalit Verma, who heads Aurodhan Pondicherry. “This is probably the first time we are hosting Irish music in Puducherry. We have the audience for all kinds of music here which you might not find in other places. They are open to experimental music. Over the years, Aurodhan and other organisations have organised music concerts of different kinds and contributed to educating people to different sounds,” says Mr. Verma.
The concerts will feature unique music, promises Mr. Verma. Lakshman Das Baul will bring with him the sounds of the ancient, mystic tradition of Baul music. While ALDOC will have flute and chant-like vocals, Ziskakan will take the audience through the peppy, upbeat Malawi music. KOKOMO will bring their brand of alternative power rock and heavy guitar sounds.
The duo from Tulegar will indulge in ‘Khoomei’ or ‘throat singing’ as they refer to it, mixing it with traditional Mongolian music, acoustic rock and Chinese folk music.
“All of the musicians promote excellence, and having them all here will add to the multicultural atmosphere,” he says. The concerts, hopes Mr. Verma, will add to the art and culture scene of Puducherry. Those interested in attending may contact Aurodhan, he says. KOKOMO will play at Krtashreya Aurodhan Garden at Vaithikuppam at 8.15 p.m. on November 25 while the remaining artistes will play from 6 p.m. on November 30 at the same venue.
